A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cincinnati vs. Pasadena for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cincinnati or Pasadena?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Cincinnati or Pasadena? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Cincinnati

Cincinnati is a authentic, hard-working, and blue collar city. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Pasadena

Pasadena is a picturesque, quaint, and charming city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cincinnati and Pasadena: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Cincinnati or Pasadena?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Pasadena than Cincinnati. While Cincinnati is larger than Pasadena, Pasadena has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Cincinnati is popular for its breweries and down-to-earth personality. Pasadena is popular for being the home of the Tournament of Roses and the Rose Bowl. It is also home to the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

How is Cincinnati different from Pasadena?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Pasadena and Cincinnati. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cincinnati or Pasadena?

Cincinnati
Pasadena

Plenty of people visit the superb sights and museums in both Cincinnati and Pasadena.

Cincinnati offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. You'll find both traditional and quirky museums around town. For outside-the-box, check out the American Sign Museum or the Behringer-Crawford Museum. Art museums include the Cincinnati Art Museum, the Contemporary Arts Center, and the Taft Museum of Art. Other popular museums include the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, and the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal.

Many visitors head to Pasadena specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There's a good number of museums around town that include kids' museums, art museums, and local museums. Popular museums include the USC Pacific Asia Museum, the Norton Simon Museum, and the Pasadena Museum of History. Many people also enjoy touring the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.


Is the Food Better in Cincinnati or Pasadena? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cincinnati
Pasadena

Pasadena is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Cincinnati is not a culinary destination.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Pasadena. Local restaurants feature southern California cuisine as well as international flavors. Dishes often use local ingredients that are fresh and seasonal. Restaurants range from casual to fine dining and the atmosphere is warm and welcoming.

Cincinnati is not a culinary destination.

Is Cincinnati or Pasadena Better for Nightlife?

Cincinnati
Pasadena

Pasadena is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Cincinnati is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Pasadena is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Much of the nightlife scene is concentrated around Old Pasadena. You'll find clubs, bars, and lounges that begin the evening with Happy Hours and then become more party-focused as the evening progresses.

If you're looking for night time activities Cincinnati has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is diverse and includes music venues, breweries, and nightclubs. In addition to the city's downtown, you'll find trendy places to hang out in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. Breweries are popular in the city, in part because of its German roots.

Is the Shopping Better in Cincinnati or Pasadena?

Cincinnati
Pasadena

Pasadena is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Cincinnati is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Pasadena is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Old Pasadena is where you'll find some of the best shopping. It's filled with a charming atmosphere and interesting boutiques.

Cincinnati has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are large shopping malls and retail outlets. You'll also find local boutiques in the Montgomery or Mariemont areas.


Is Cincinnati or Pasadena Better for Families?

Cincinnati
Pasadena

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cincinnati or Pasadena.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cincinnati. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities around town like the Cincinnati Zoo, the Cincinnati Museum Center, Newport Aquarium, and Smale Riverfront Park.

Pasadena offers lots of family activities. There are a number of kid-friendly museums around town including Kidspace Children's Museum. There are also nature centers, playgrounds, and plenty of family-friendly restaurants.

Is Cincinnati or Pasadena Better for Couples?

Cincinnati
Pasadena

Pasadena is a popular place for its romantic activities. However, Cincinnati is not particularly known for couples.

Pasadena makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a charming town with a bit of a European vibe and plenty of outdoor activities. Fine dining and interesting shopping make this a nice weekend destination.

Cincinnati is not always the best place to visit for a couple. If you do find yourself in town for a few days, there are several good restaurants and a number of music venues that can keep the visit fun and entertaining.

Is Cincinnati or Pasadena Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cincinnati
Pasadena

Cincinnati is a good destination for backpackers. However, Pasadena is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cincinnati. There are actually a couple of hostels in town for backpackers or students.

Pasadena is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the list for most backpackers.


Is Cincinnati or Pasadena Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cincinnati
Pasadena

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Cincinnati and Pasadena.

You'll find some public transit in Cincinnati, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are two bus systems around town - the METRO and TANK bus systems. There's also a streetcar that travels through the downtown.

While Pasadena offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Buses and light rail offer local transit and connect the city to nearby Los Angeles.

Is Cincinnati or Pasadena a more walkable city?

Cincinnati
Pasadena

Cincinnati is notable for its ease of walking around. Also, Pasadena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

Cincinnati is a very walkable destination. There are several surprisingly walkable areas, particularly downtown and the nearby neighborhoods.

Pasadena is somewhat walkable. Most people head to Old Pasadena, which is the most concentrated and walkable part of the city.

For even more information, also check out Is Cincinnati Worth Visiting? and Is Pasadena Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pasadena or Cincinnati?

How long in Cincinnati or Pasadena?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cincinnati and Pasadena. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Pasadena than in Cincinnati. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Cincinnati, and 1-3 days is enough time in Pasadena.

Couples should spend more time in Pasadena than Cincinnati. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Pasadena that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cincinnati than Pasadena if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Cincinnati.


  • How many days in Cincinnati or Pasadena? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cincinnati 1-2 
    Pasadena 1-3

One day in Cincinnati or Pasadena?

The city of Cincinnati offers nightlife and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

With museums and nightlife around the picturesque city of Pasadena, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Pasadena, one day is sufficent for most.


A weekend in Cincinnati or Pasadena?

Cincinnati is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cincinnati, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Pasadena, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Cincinnati or Pasadena?

Cincinnati is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Pasadena, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Cincinnati or Pasadena?

Cincinnati is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Pasadena is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Pasadena or Cincinnati?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Cincinnati is $183, while the average daily cost in Pasadena is $62. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Cincinnati and Pasadena in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cincinnati $102
    Pasadena $25
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cincinnati $204
    Pasadena $50
Compare Hotels in Cincinnati and Pasadena

Looking for a hotel in Cincinnati or Pasadena? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Cincinnati


Hotels in Pasadena


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Cincinnati Hotel Prices and Pasadena Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cincinnati $25
    Pasadena $21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cincinnati

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cincinnati:

  • Cincinnati to Cincinnati Airport (CVG) - Departure Private Transfer: $35

Is it cheaper to fly into Cincinnati or Pasadena?

Prices for flights to both Pasadena and Cincinnati change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Cincinnati $55
    Pasadena $19

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cincinnati

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Cincinnati.

  • Ohio River Cruise with Buffet Dinner: $61
  • Mainstrasse Village Food Tour in Covington KY: $79
  • Cincinnati Court Street Food Tour with Vegan Options: $85
  • Cincinnati Streetcar Food Tour With Findlay Market : $85
  • Cincinnati Walking Sightseeing Tour with Pizza and Ice-cream: $120

Typical Food Prices in Pasadena

Some typical examples of dining costs in Pasadena are as follows:


  • Casual Dinner Out (family of 4)
    $58

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cincinnati $26
    Pasadena -

Tours and Activities in Cincinnati

Here are a few actual costs in Cincinnati for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Self-Guided Haunted Walking Audio Tour: $6.75
  • Mt Adams Historic, Cincinnati, App/GPS Audio Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Mount Adams Historic Smartphone Guided App GPS Audio Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Self Guided Cincinnati Ghost Haunted Walking Tour Audio Tour Music Hall OTR: $7.75
  • Self Guided Walking Tour of Cincinnati: $9.59
  • Queen of the West's Best - An Audio Tour: $12
  • Reds Hall of Fame and Museum Entry Ticket: $12
  • Cincinnati Reds Baseball Game Ticket at Great American Ballpark: $16
  • Tour of Historic Wesleyan Cemetery: $20
  • Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Cincinnati: $25
  • Ghost Walking Tour: $26
  • Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Cincinnati Sights & Stories: $28

Tours and Activities in Pasadena

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Pasadena are as follows:

  • Haunted Walking Tour: $33
  • Old Pasadena Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour: $49
  • Cozumel: ATVs Jungle Experience + Beach Club All Inclusive: $79
  • LA: East Side Guided Film Locations Tour: $350

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cincinnati $11
    Pasadena -

Sample the Local Flavors in Cincinnati

Also in Cincinnati, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Cincinnati Bar Hunt: Cin-sational Cincinnati Bar Crawl: $12
  • Hidden Brewery Caverns Tour in Cincinnati with Beer Tasting: $49
  • Craft Brewery 3 Stop Hop: $64
  • Cincinnati Original Craft Brewery Small-Group Tour: $68


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cincinnati and Pasadena, we can see that Cincinnati is more expensive. And not only is Pasadena much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Pasadena would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Pasadena and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Cincinnati would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cincinnati than you might in Pasadena.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cincinnati Expensive? and Is Pasadena Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cincinnati or Pasadena?

Cincinnati has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Pasadena. When comparing the sizes of Cincinnati and Pasadena, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Cincinnati or Pasadena?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cincinnati or Pasadena in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cincinnati and Pasadena. Most visitors come to Cincinnati for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Pasadena because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cincinnati is a little warmer than Pasadena. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cincinnati in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Pasadena averages at about 73°F (23°C).

In July, Cincinnati usually receives more rain than Pasadena. Cincinnati gets 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain, while Pasadena receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cincinnati 79°F (26°C) 
    Pasadena 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Cincinnati or Pasadena in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cincinnati as well as Pasadena. The autumn months attract visitors to Cincinnati because of the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Pasadena this time of year.

In October, Cincinnati is generally cooler than Pasadena. Daily temperatures in Cincinnati average around 58°F (15°C), and Pasadena fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

Cincinnati usually gets more rain in October than Pasadena. Cincinnati gets 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain, while Pasadena receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cincinnati 58°F (15°C) 
    Pasadena 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Cincinnati or Pasadena in the Winter?

Both Pasadena and Cincinnati are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums and the shopping scene are the main draw to Cincinnati this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pasadena for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Cincinnati in the winter. Cincinnati is much colder than Pasadena in the winter. The daily temperature in Cincinnati averages around 31°F (-0°C) in January, and Pasadena fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In January, Cincinnati usually receives less rain than Pasadena. Cincinnati gets 2.2 inches (57 mm) of rain, while Pasadena receives 2.5 inches (63 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cincinnati 31°F (-0°C) 
    Pasadena 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Cincinnati or Pasadena in the Spring?

Both Pasadena and Cincinnati during the spring are popular places to visit.

In the spring, Cincinnati is cooler than Pasadena. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cincinnati in April average around 56°F (14°C), and Pasadena averages at about 62°F (17°C).

Cincinnati usually gets more rain in April than Pasadena. Cincinnati gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Pasadena receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cincinnati 56°F (14°C) 
    Pasadena 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Pasadena and Cincinnati

Cincinnati Pasadena
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm)
Feb 35°F (2°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm) 58°F (14°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm)
Mar 46°F (8°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 59°F (15°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 65°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (4 mm)
Jun 74°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 69°F (20°C) 0 inches (1 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0 inches (0 mm)
Aug 77°F (25°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 74°F (24°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Sep 71°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 58°F (15°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 68°F (20°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Nov 48°F (9°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 62°F (16°C) 1.6 inches (42 mm)
Dec 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm)